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Joint Command Centers being created in Iraq
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FOB CALDWELL, Iraq (10/8/2004) — A major step has been taken towards improving the communication capability of emergency services and Iraqi Security Forces under the direction of the 1st Infantry Division, with the creation of Joint Command Centers (JCC) in multiple cities and towns. The concept of the JCC focuses on bringing together in one central location representatives from the Iraqi Police (IP), Iraqi National Guard (ING), a Fire Department representative, a local hospital representative, as well as Multi National Force members. Already the MNF has started equipping JCC locations with communication equipment such as base station radios, computers and high speed internet service, fax machines, multiple telephones, as well as mobile radios for the IP and ING patrols. The intent is to enhance the speed and effectiveness that Iraqi Security Forces and emergency personnel can respond to the needs of the Iraqi citizens and at the same time allow different agencies to communicate with each other. “Capt. Mills, there is a possible IED (improvised explosive device) under the water tower” reported Mayor Mohammad Maroof Hussein, inside the radio room at the JCC in Balad Ruz. Balad Ruz is a small bustling town near Baqubah in the Diyala Province. The Mayor was inside the JCC as several officers from the 6th Battalion, Iraqi Army and their counter part from the Coalition Military Assistance Training Team, Maj. Pete Fedak, got their first look at this dynamic operation which first opened on September 1. Mills collects more information about the suspected IED from the Mayor and coordinates the Explosive Ordnance Detachment to the scene which has safely been secured by the IP. The response is launched smoothly and rapidly all from one effective location. All of the key personnel are in the JCC working as a team. Capt. Thomas Mills is with Headquarters Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 150th Armor, and he works in the JCC as the Liaison between the Iraqi Security Forces and the MNF. In the Diyala province the MNF has assisted the Iraqis with establishing JCC locations in Balad Ruz, Mandila, Khanaqin, Jalula, and Qara Tapa. Eventually, the JCC plan includes networking all of these JCC locations together by computer and radio. Further information comes in about the possible IED near the water tower. “Mortar rounds were found by an IP patrol” said Mills. “Right now they don’t think there are any wires showing, but we told them just to secure it and stay back” added Mills. Commenting on the mission of the JCC, the Mayor stated, “I hope to work side by side with the Iraqi Army, IP, ING, and alongside with the Coalition Forces” concluded Mohammad Maroof Hussein. Last 10 Stories |
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2004 National Guard Bureau |
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